Termites

Most home purchase agreements have clauses that deal with termites. After the agreement is ratified, a termite inspection is arranged. Before the closing can occur, the sellers must be able to produce papers signed by a licensed exterminator.Before you sign an agreement to buy or sell a home, you should read the termite clause and be sure that you understand it. Who selects the exterminator and pays for the inspection? If bugs are found, who pays for the treatment? Are the sellers obligated to repair any damage and have they placed a limit of the dollar amount they will spend on those repairs? If treatment is required, the buyers may want a chance to discuss the options with the pest control company, especially if someone in the family is sensitive to the chemicals used to control the termites. Also in Section II of the Wood Destroying Inspection Report, Inspection Findings it states: "This report is indicative of the condition of the above identified structure(s) on the date of the inspection and is not to be construed as a guarantee or warranty against latent, concealed or future infestations or defects. Based on a careful visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of the structure(s) inspected." You should contact your licensed inspector with any questions about the report, guarantees, and recommendations for service contract options.